Obtaining a Vietnam eVisa prior to arrival is a simple procedure that facilitates a seamless entry into the nation. The eVisa is intended for brief trips for tourism, business, or family reasons. To start, you require a valid passport with at least six months left until it expires, a recent passport-sized photograph, and a scanned version of the bio page of your passport.
The entire application process is done online via the official Vietnam eVisa website, ensuring you utilize a secure and authentic service. Just complete the online form with your personal information and travel plans, and upload the necessary documents. After submitting your application, the usual processing duration is around three to five working days.
Once approved, your eVisa will be sent to you by email in PDF format. Print this document and take it with you on your trip, since immigration officials will need it when you enter. Utilizing the official website reduces the likelihood of scams or additional charges frequently linked to third-party companies.
By securing your eVisa prior to arrival, you can concentrate on organizing your itinerary and savoring your trip to Vietnam, assured that your travel paperwork is sorted.
In this article, we will give you helpful hints and what you should know before you arrive in Vietnam and how to apply for a evisa to make the process easier for you. Please be aware that we do not work for the Vietnamese government and information can change at any time. However, at the time of writing this article the lengths and procedures were laid out this way, but these can change at any time, so please look at the below government Vietnamese websites we have listed for the latest information.
Use an Official Government Online Website to Apply for Your e-visa
When seeking a Vietnam eVisa, it’s essential to utilize the official government website to prevent scams, excessive fees, or setbacks. Numerous third-party services provide eVisa assistance, yet they frequently impose elevated charges and might lack reliability.
Vietnam eVisa Official Website
The only official websites for Vietnam’s eVisa applications at the time of writing this article are:
https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
or
These websites are overseen by the Vietnam Immigration Department and the Ministry of Public Security Immigration Department, guaranteeing a safe and valid application procedure
Why Utilize the Official Site?
Reduced Costs – The official website lists a fee of $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa. External websites might impose additional service charges.
Safe & Trustworthy – Your personal data is safeguarded when submitting through the official website.
Quicker Processing – Direct government processing requires 3 to 5 business days, whereas agencies might create delays.
Steer Clear of Scams – Numerous unofficial sites may appear alike but lack authorization from the Vietnamese government. These websites might impose excessive fees, cause delays, or potentially not provide your visa at all
How to Submit an Application?
Go to the official website.
Complete the online application form.
Submit a passport photograph along with a scanned copy of the passport bio page.
Make the online payment for the non-refundable visa fee.
Await email confirmation (in 3–5 business days).
Download and print your eVisa to show at immigration.
Last Suggestion
Before submitting your application, verify that you are on the official government site to guarantee a smooth and secure application experience
Difference between eVisa and visa on arrival in Vietnam
Visitors can select between an eVisa and a Visa on Arrival (VOA) when visiting Vietnam. Although both choices permit access into the nation, there are significant distinctions between them in terms of eligibility, convenience, and the application process.
Vietnam eVisa
The Vietnamese government issues the Vietnam eVisa, an electronic visa that permits visitors to enter the nation for a maximum of 90 days (single or repeated admission). The official Vietnam Immigration website is used to complete the application completely online.
Application Procedure: Submit an online application, include a passport-sized photo and your passport information, and pay the processing fee.
Processing Time: Usually three to five business days.
Valid Entry Points: 32 international checkpoints, such as seaports, land borders, and airports.
Validity: 90 days is the validity period (single or multiple entry).
Fees: A non-refundable government charge that typically ranges from $25 to $50.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
A pre-approval letter from a visa agency prior to departure is required for tourists to receive a Visa on Arrival, which is a type of visa granted at specific Vietnamese airports. It is available for those needing a longer stay or multiple entries.
The visa stamp is obtained upon arrival after submitting an online application for a pre-approval letter from an authorized travel agent.
Processing Time: It takes two to three business days to process a preapproval letter.
Only five international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, and Phu Quoc) have entry points.
30, 45 to 90 days (single or multiple entry) is the validity period.
Fees: $25 to $50 for a preapproval letter and a visa stamp.
Key Differences
eVisa: Completely online, no processing at the airport required.
VOA: Needs an airport stamp and a preapproval letter.
eVisa: Acceptable at 33 places of entry.
VOA: Only for those arriving at the airport.
While VOA is appropriate for individuals requiring a longer stay or multiple-entry choices, the eVisa is the recommended option for simplicity.
How Long Does it Take to Obtain an E-Visa for Vietnam?
The typical processing duration for a Vietnam eVisa is usually between 3 to 5 business days from when the application is submitted. Nevertheless, the time taken can differ based on the volume of applications, public holidays, or any technical difficulties.
Standard Processing Duration
Official timeline: 3 to 5 business days
Weekends & holidays: Applications do not get processed during Vietnamese public holidays or on weekends.
Potential Delays: Mistakes in the application, unclear passport photographs, or missing details may lead to further delays.
Urgent or Expedited Processing
If you require your eVisa urgently, some travel agencies provide expedited services that can shorten the processing time to 24 to 48 hours for an extra fee. However, this option isn’t available through the Vietnamese Immigration website directly.
Application Steps & Timeline
Submit Application Online (Day 1) – Complete the form, upload a passport photograph along with the bio page of your passport, and remit the processing fee.
Processing by Vietnamese Immigration (Days 2-5) – Authorities will assess your application and confirm the provided documents.
Receive eVisa Approval (Day 3-5) – You will receive an email with your eVisa approval and a PDF file attached, which you must print and present to immigration.
Final Thoughts
To ensure a seamless experience, apply a minimum of one week prior to your travel date to avoid unforeseen delays. If you are traveling during busy periods or around holidays, it is advisable to submit your application two weeks in advance.
Do I need passport photos for a Vietnam eVisa?
Yes, in order to apply for a Vietnam eVisa, you must have passport-style pictures. Travelers can enter Vietnam for short-term visits, business trips, or tourism with the Vietnam eVisa, an electronic visa. You must supply a digital passport photo that satisfies certain specifications as part of the online application procedure.
Requirements for Vietnam eVisa Photos
The following requirements must be met by your passport photo when applying for a Vietnam eVisa:
Dimensions: 4 x 6 cm (passport size standard)
Format: PNG or JPEG
Background: a pale or white background
Expression: Eyes open, mouth closed, neutral facial expression
Position of the Head: Directly facing the camera
Clothes: Unless required by religion, no caps or head coverings
Glasses: No reflective or colored eyewear is permitted.
You must also provide a digital image of the bio page of your passport, making sure that all of your personal information is readable and clear.
Where Can I Find Passport Photos for an eVisa to Vietnam?
You can visit a professional photo studio or use a smartphone to take your own passport photo. Apps and online tools are also available to assist with proper image cropping and formatting.
Conclusion
A passport photo is required in order to apply for a Vietnam eVisa. Before submitting your application online, make sure your photo complies with the requirements to prevent delays or rejection.
Can I apply for an electronic visa while I am in Vietnam?
You cannot apply for a Vietnam eVisa if you are already within the country. The Vietnam eVisa is intended for individuals who are outside Vietnam and intend to enter with a legitimate electronic visa. The application needs to be submitted before you arrive, as the eVisa is issued for entry purposes, rather than for extending or renewing a visa while in Vietnam.
What If You Are Already in Vietnam?
If you find yourself in Vietnam and wish to extend your stay, there are several options available to you:
Visa Extension or Renewal – Go to the nearest immigration office or reach out to a visa agency to ask about the possibility of extending your existing visa. Extensions are not guaranteed and will vary based on the type of visa you hold.
Visa Run – Some travelers exit Vietnam and apply for a new eVisa at a neighboring country (like Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos) before returning.
Apply for a Different Visa Type – If you meet the criteria, you can apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) or a business visa through a travel agency.
Can I apply for a Vietnam electronic visa to work?
No, a Vietnam eVisa cannot be used for legal employment in Vietnam. The eVisa is specifically designed for tourism, business meetings, visiting family, or short-term visits, and does not function as a work permit. If you intend to work in Vietnam, you must apply for the correct work visa and permit.
Limitations of the Vietnam eVisa
The eVisa is valid for a duration of 90 days (single or multiple entry).
It prohibits employment or paid work.
It is meant for tourism, conferences, or business visits but not for official job roles.
What Visa Is Needed for Work in Vietnam?
To work legally in Vietnam, you must obtain both a work permit and a Vietnam work visa (LD Visa).
Vietnam Work Visa (LD1 or LD2): Foreign employees working in Vietnam receive a Vietnam Work Visa (LD1 or LD2). This visa requires sponsorship from your employer.
Work permit: is required for employment that exceeds three months. The agency responsible for issuing this is the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (DOLISA).
Temporary Residence Card (TRC): To live legally in Vietnam, you may also need a TRC if you plan to work there for a prolonged duration.
Conclusion
If you intend to work in Vietnam, applying for an eVisa may not be the most suitable option. To ensure legal employment in the country, you must instead secure a work visa and permit via a sponsoring employer
Can you Leave Vietnam and Re-enter Once you Have an e-visa?
Yes, if you possess a multiple-entry eVisa, you are allowed to exit Vietnam and return. However, if you possess a single-entry eVisa, you need to apply for a new eVisa prior to returning to Vietnam.
Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry eVisa
Single-Entry evisa(Most Typical)
– Applicable for a single entry only.
– Upon leaving Vietnam, the eVisa loses its validity, and you need to apply for a new one to return.
Multiple Entry evisa (Recently Launched)
– Permits several entries over a period of 90 days.
– You may exit and re-enter Vietnam without needing to apply for another visa while it is still valid.
What Happens If You Hold a Single-Entry eVisa and Must Re-Enter?
If you possess a single-entry eVisa and intend to exit and then come back, several alternatives are available to you:
– Submit your application for a new eVisa from outside Vietnam.
– Obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) – This necessitates a pre-approval letter from a visa agency and can only be accessed at certain international airports.
– Apply for an Alternative Visa Type – If you intend to travel often, think about obtaining a business visa or a multiple-entry visa prior to your journey.
Conclusion
If you plan to exit and re-enter Vietnam, make sure you possess a multiple-entry eVisa or obtain a new visa prior to your return. Always verify your visa category and expiration to prevent any travel issues.
